Planner Influencer Board

As a strategic initiative of the association, Destinations International works to elevate the critical role CVBs have on the event planning process and work to educate CVB members with tools, resources and best practices to successfully deliver that value. The Planner Influencer Board contributes to the association’s overall business events strategy by helping define the key elements CVBs need to deliver on their promise of helping make events successful.

The overall goals for the Planner Influencer Board include:

  • Gaining a better understanding of the trends, drivers, and priorities shaping destination organizations and exploring how CVBs can become a more valuable partner with meeting professionals in light of these influences.
  • Validating the CVB value proposition, ensuring destination organizations are aligned with meeting professionals’ needs and expectations.
  • Reviewing, assessing, and brainstorming product direction and opportunities for improving solutions, interaction, and customer satisfaction.
  • Collaborating on shared business issues, thereby strengthening the relationship between CVB members and customers.
  • Serving as an advocate for the CVB community and supporting in the extension of education around the CVB value proposition within the industry and associated network of Business Event Strategists.

2026 Committee Members:

  • Christine Hilgert, CMP, Executive Vice President, Etherio
  • Connie Samuels, MBA, CMP, DES, SVP, Events, Opportunity Finance Network
  • Darla Owens, Director of National Conference Planning & Partnerships, Future Business Leaders of America
  • Deborah Borak, CMM, SMMC, Senior Vice President/Team Director, Conference Direct
  • Jeff Sacks, Managing VP, ESN, Maritz
  • Kristi Casale, CMP, Senior Vice President, Meetings and Continuing Education, American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
  • Lauren Farrell, Director, Solution Design & Sourcing, Streamline Events
  • Siena Manoogian, CEM, Annual Meetings Sr. Coordinator, American Urological Association

Destinations International Staff Liaison

  • Emily Scheiderer, Director of Education, Sales and Services

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